Music Grants and Funding Opportunities for Musicians.

25th April 2019

Music grants and funding for musicians

If you are trying to find money to help fund your musical development then you have come to the right place. Music grants are available if you know where to look and we’ve compiled this list to help you make a start.

Arts Council – UK wide music grants

You can apply for the Developing your Creative Practice fund during one of 4 rounds in the year. It is open to individuals who are working in one of their chosen disciplines. They usually award music grants between £2000 and £10000.

Ribble Valley – Arts Excellence Awards Scheme.

This one is close to home and covered by Ribble Valley Borough Council. This fund is designed to assist young talented performer’s progress in their chosen activity. The main aim of the scheme is to help with the cost of tuition, travel and equipment associated with your activity. Activities covered by the scheme are Dance, Drama, Music and singing.

Music For All

Music for all is a charity that aims to provide funding and music grants for everyone of any age, regardless of background. Literally music for all! They have quarterly application rounds, and there is a deadline to look out for on the 1st July.

Awards For Young Musicians

Although application is now closed for 2019, you will be able to apply for Awards for Young Musicians for 2020. We’ll keep an eye on it and let you know when it re-opens. You can apply to this award for funding towards tuition, instruments, accessories etc.

This award is not for total beginners, but on the other hand you don’t need to be working at high-grades to apply for this financial award. Every one is on their own musical journey and that’s what they want to see. It is also means-tested and aimed at families of low-income.

Take it away 0% finance.

Take it Away isn’t a music grant, but a finance scheme with two options – Either you are an adult buying for a child under 18, or you are between 18-25 and buying for yourself. Either way as long as you are eligible you can get an instrument for 0% finance. You’ll pay 10% upfront and then monthly payments to the end of the finance period. I have used this finance scheme once or twice myself and it certainly helped me to buy essential gear. The Take It Away scheme can be used on instruments, equipment, software and even tuition. Most major music retailers are involved with the scheme, so make sure you ask if you’re shopping for a new instrument.